The Chocolate Dipped Cone from Dairy Queen features a creamy, soft-serve vanilla ice cream nestled in a crisp waffle cone, generously coated with a rich, glossy chocolate shell that hardens to a satisfying crunch.
Equipments
- Soft serve ice cream machine
- Waffle cone maker
- Chocolate dipping pot or warmer
- Dipping tongs
- Ice cream scoop (optional)
- Cone holder or stand
- Freezer (for pre-made cones or storage)
- Parchment paper or tray (for setting dipped cones)
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Waffle cone batter (prepared or mix)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Heavy cream and whole milk are essential for creating the creamy texture of the soft-serve vanilla ice cream, while granulated sugar and vanilla extract enhance its sweetness and flavor. Using semi-sweet chocolate chips combined with coconut oil helps achieve the rich, glossy chocolate shell that hardens quickly when dipped. The waffle cone batter should be prepared fresh or from a quality mix to ensure a crisp cone that holds the ice cream perfectly. You can customize your Chocolate Dipped Cone by adjusting the chocolate-to-oil ratio for a thicker or thinner coating. This Dairy Queen copycat menu item offers a deliciously crunchy and creamy treat you can make at home with these key ingredients.
Instructions
- Pre-chill soft serve ice cream machine according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract; whisk until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour mixture into soft serve machine and churn until creamy and soft-serve consistency.
- Preheat waffle cone maker.
- Prepare waffle cone batter (as per package or recipe instructions).
- Pour batter into waffle cone maker and cook until golden brown.
- Shape hot waffle into cone form; cool completely on cone holder or stand.
- In chocolate dipping pot, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth and glossy.
- Pour melted chocolate into deep, narrow container for easy dipping.
- Using an ice cream scoop (if needed), fill waffle cone with soft-serve ice cream directly from machine.
- Hold cone by base and dip ice cream into melted chocolate, rotating to coat evenly.
- Use tongs if necessary for a steady grip; allow excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place finished cone upright in cone holder or stand, or on a parchment-lined tray.
- Let chocolate shell harden for a few seconds until firm.
- Serve immediately or store briefly in freezer for later.
Substitution
The Chocolate Dipped Cone from Dairy Queen copycat menu replicates the classic treat with creamy vanilla soft-serve in a crisp waffle cone coated by a hardened chocolate shell. If you don't have a soft serve machine, you can use regular vanilla ice cream softened slightly for easier scooping. When the semi-sweet chocolate chips are unavailable, dark or milk chocolate chips also work well for the dipping chocolate, though the flavor and sweetness will vary. Using coconut oil in the chocolate mixture helps create a smooth, shiny coating, but can be substituted with vegetable oil or shortening if needed. Make sure to place dipped cones on parchment paper or a tray lined with wax paper to prevent sticking while the chocolate hardens.
Tips
Make sure to pre-chill your soft serve ice cream machine thoroughly before starting to ensure the ice cream sets properly with a smooth texture. When shaping the waffle cones, work quickly while the waffles are hot to form them without cracking and let them cool completely on a cone holder for stability. Melt the chocolate with coconut oil until glossy to achieve a shiny, crisp shell that hardens quickly when dipped. When dipping your ice cream, hold the cone steady and rotate it smoothly to get an even chocolate coating, then allow the shell to harden fully before serving or storing.
Nutritions
The Chocolate Dipped Cone from Dairy Queen combines high-fat dairy ingredients like heavy cream and whole milk, providing a rich source of calcium and vitamin D essential for bone health. The addition of semi-sweet chocolate contributes antioxidants and modest amounts of iron and magnesium, while the waffle cone adds carbohydrates for quick energy. Your treat contains sugars from both the ice cream base and chocolate, which should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive calorie intake. This indulgent dessert offers a balance of creamy texture and crunch, satisfying both nutritional needs and flavor cravings.
Storage
Store your Chocolate Dipped Cones upright in a cone holder or on parchment paper inside the freezer to maintain the crispness of the waffle cone and the hardened chocolate shell. Wrap cones individually in plastic wrap if storing for more than a few hours to prevent freezer burn and ice crystals from forming. Avoid room temperature storage as the chocolate shell will soften and the ice cream will melt quickly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or white chocolate for a richer or creamier flavor profile. Try adding finely chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles to the chocolate coating for extra texture and visual appeal. Instead of using coconut oil, use vegetable shortening or butter to alter the glossiness and thickness of the chocolate shell. For a unique twist, infuse the vanilla soft serve mixture with a hint of coffee or mint extract before churning to complement the chocolate-coated cone.
Allergies
Your Chocolate Dipped Cone contains dairy from heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla ice cream, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The waffle cone may contain wheat, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The chocolate shell made from semi-sweet chocolate chips may also contain soy lecithin, a common allergen to watch for.
Why this recipe?
Dairy Queen's Chocolate Dipped Cone menu offers a perfect balance of creamy vanilla soft serve coated in a rich, crackly chocolate shell, delivering a satisfying texture contrast that delights taste buds. The chocolate coating hardens immediately, encasing the cone in a crisp, indulgent layer that enhances every bite. Making a copycat version allows You to recreate this delectable treat at home, controlling ingredient quality while saving money. Fans appreciate the nostalgic flavor and the iconic experience that makes this dessert a timeless favorite.